Happy birthday Rupert!

Sunday 06 September 2020

Rupert Bear turns 100-years-old this month and Sausmarez Manor is holding a family-friendly event to celebrate the day, as well as the much-loved bear's links to Guernsey.

The Bear Necessitates event will run from 11:00 until 16:00 on Sunday 20 September.

There will be games, arts and crafts, storytelling and entertainment for children of all ages, as well as food and live music. 

Organisers have also recreated an old Guernsey postcard for the special day, featuring a family of bears having a picnic outside Sausmarez Manor.

"I am delighted that there is a date in the diary to celebrate Rupert's 100th birthday," said owner of the manor, Peter de Sausmarez.

Pictured: Rupert Bear turns 100 this month.

"I am sure there are a lot of islanders out there who grew up loving Rupert, and by widening the event to feature other famous bears, there will be something for everyone. I hope we get lots of people joining us on the day."

The children's character was made famous in stories published in the Daily Express newspaper back in 1920 and was originally created by artist and illustrator, Mary Tourtel, who was married to Guernseyman, Herbert Tourtel. He was working at the Daily Express at the time and wrote the text for the famous books.

"I also wanted to ask islanders if there is anyone out there who knows where Mr Tourtel lived," added Mr de Sausmarez. "Perhaps there is a chance to get a blue plaque for the house."

Tickets for the event can be bought on the door for £3, while children aged 12 and under will get in for free.

Pictured top: Organisers have recreated an old Guernsey postcard to honour Rupert Bear's centenary.